Scholarships & Fellowships

Spertus Institute for Jewish Learning & Leadership is committed to serving our students and ensuring equal access to our high-quality learning and leadership programs. A Spertus education builds and strengthens community leaders, and the Spertus Scholarship Program makes our programs accessible to students with varied interests, backgrounds, and professional experiences.

Multiple options are available, depending on program and specific eligibility requirements. Limited funds are granted based on demonstrated need, academic achievement, and promise.


Midcareer Fellowship

For midcareer Jewish communal professionals applying to the MA in Jewish Professional Studies or Executive MA in Jewish Professional Studies. These Fellowships are made possible with the support of a generous outside donor.

Eligibility Requirements

  • 5+ years since receipt of undergraduate degree
  • 3+ years working in Jewish communal services (does not need to be contiguous)
  • Currently employed in a Jewish organization for a minimum of 15 hours per week
  • Commitment to successfully completing the coursework according to program schedule
  • Commitment to the field of Jewish communal service
  • Satisfactory in-person interview to assess qualifications for successful program completion

Fellowship funds are limited. Fellowships are awarded to qualified students on a first-come, first served basis.


Spertus Scholarship

For MA in Jewish Professional Studies and Executive MA in Jewish Professional Studies students who are not eligible for the Midcareer Fellowship.


The Spertus Chicago Scholarship

For employees of Jewish organizations in the greater Chicago area who are accepted into the MA in Jewish Professional Studies and Executive MA in Jewish Professional Studies. Funds are limited.


Jewish Studies Scholarships

The Jewish Studies Scholarship is for Master of Arts in Jewish StudiesDoctor of Science in Jewish Studies, and Doctor of Hebrew Letters students who demonstrate financial need and/or academic promise. Scholarships are awarded on a per course basis and are made possible in part through the generosity of Gene and Adele Hoffman. Contact Amie Barrish (information below) to find out more.


Certificate in Jewish Leadership Scholarship

Need-based, limited scholarships for participants in our Certificate in Jewish Leadership programs. Participants of special, subsidized cohorts are not eligible for this additional funding.


Have Questions or Need More Information?

Contact Amie Barrish
Assistant Director for Recruitment
abarrish@spertus.edu or 312.322.1707